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Users of earthquake-prone buildings

Last updated: 24 August 2026

EPB - Building users and public

This page provides useful information for people who use, occupy, live or work near an earthquake-prone building (EPB). Find out where to find information about EPBs and what signs mean.

There are no longer any EPBs in Auckland, the Chatham Islands and the upper North Island low seismic zone. The current EPB system stays in place everywhere else until 30 June 2027.

From 1 July 2027, a new system for managing EPBs will take effect under the Building (Earthquake-prone Buildings) Amendment Act.

Find out more about the new system:

Changes to the earthquake-prone building system

Earthquake-prone building information

Any building that is classified as an earthquake-prone building must display an EPB sign where it can be easily seen.

Read about the meaning of EPB notices

Earthquake-prone buildings must also be listed on the EPB register.

The EPB Register provides information about buildings that territorial authorities (local councils) have determined to be earthquake prone:

Register of earthquake-prone buildings (EPB Register) – epbr.building.govt.nz

Safety

Aotearoa New Zealand is a seismically active country, and earthquakes can occur anywhere at any time.

The EPB system helps reduce the risk of harm in an earthquake by requiring the country’s most vulnerable buildings to be strengthened.

Building owners are allowed time to complete strengthening work. The amount of time allowed depends on the level of earthquake risk in the area.

If a building is designated an EPB, it does not mean the building is immediately dangerous. In most cases, these buildings can continue to be used while strengthening work is planned.

Changes to the earthquake-prone building system

Auckland, Chatham Islands and upper North Island

There are no longer any designated EPBs in Auckland, the Chatham Islands, or the upper North Island low seismic zone.

For more information on this change, including a map of the seismic zones, see:

Changes to the earthquake-prone building system

More information

Find resources and tools to help you understand EPBs:

Earthquake-prone building resources

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This information is published by the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment’s Chief Executive. It is a general guide only and, if used, does not relieve any person of the obligation to consider any matter to which the information relates according to the circumstances of the particular case. Expert advice may be required in specific circumstances. Where this information relates to assisting people: